A dramatic turn of events has unfolded in the investigation into a deadly car crash that claimed the lives of four people in northern NSW last year.
The incident, which occurred on February 24, has taken a stunning turn with the arrest of a 29-year-old man who has been charged with murder.
The Alleged Events Leading Up to the Crash
According to police, Alec St Clair was allegedly attempting to rob the occupants of a car when it veered off the road and crashed into a tree at Wardell, near Ballina.
The driver, Mark Dodds, 36, and passengers Sophie-Lee Fullagar, 33, Benjamin Watego, 50, and James Doherty, 42, all tragically lost their lives at the scene.
A Year-Long Investigation Comes to a Head
Following a thorough and extensive investigation, detectives finally made a breakthrough, arresting St Clair at Coffs Harbour Police Station on Tuesday morning.
The allegations against him are shocking: police claim that St Clair was pursuing the blue ute in a silver Toyota Corolla when the crash occurred.
The Charges
St Clair has been hit with a slew of serious charges, including four counts of murder, assault with intent to rob armed with an offensive weapon, and cause wounding/grievous bodily harm.
He was refused bail and is set to appear before Lismore Local Court on May 14.
The Investigation Continues
As the community comes to terms with the shocking allegations, investigations under Strike Force Land are ongoing.
The families of the victims are still seeking justice, and the arrest of St Clair brings them one step closer to closure. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
